Carlisle is a name of English origin that has been used for both boys and girls over the years. It is derived from the Old English words "car" meaning free or bold, and "leah" which means wood or clearing. Therefore, the name Carlisle literally translates to "free woodland clearing."
The city of Carlisle in Cumbria, England also shares this name, which may have influenced its use as a given name. The city was founded by the Romans around 72 AD and named after their leader, Carrallaunus.
In terms of history, the name Carlisle has been used since the Middle Ages but it became more popular during the Victorian era in Britain. It was also used by American families during this time period as well.
Today, Carlisle continues to be a unique and distinctive name choice for both boys and girls. While it may not be as common as some other names, those who bear the name Carlisle often stand out due to its rarity and rich history.
The name Carlisle experienced varied popularity over the years with notable peaks in recent times. Between 1944 and 2023, there were a total of 446 births registered with the name Carlisle.